Simple Mills is on a mission to transform the way food is made—creating nourishing products with astounding ingredients and amazing taste. Founded in 2012 by Katlin Smith, our brand has redefined center-aisle grocery by delivering better-for-you products made with unique, nutrient-dense ingredients. Today, we’re a category leader and the #1 natural brand in multiple segments, with distribution in over 30,000 stores nationwide.
Now, as part of Flowers Foods, we’re entering an exciting new phase of growth—expanding our reach, accelerating innovation, and amplifying brand awareness, all while preserving the integrity of what makes Simple Mills special. Our commitment to using simple, high-quality ingredients ensures that every bite is both delicious and nutritious. Whether it’s watermelon seed flour in our cookies or butternut squash in our crackers, we craft our products with innovative, wholesome ingredients that deliver extraordinary taste.
Our work has been recognized by Fast Company as a Brand That Matters and a Most Innovative Company, and has been featured in Vogue, Forbes, Women’s Health, and NPR’s How I Built This. In 2024, Inc. named us one of its Best Workplaces, reflecting our dedication to fostering an inspiring and inclusive environment where passionate individuals can make a difference.
Join us as we shape the future of food. Learn more at www.simplemills.com.
Role Description:
This is a full-time, exempt, benefited position within the Simple Mills’ Quality team. This will be a critical role on the Supplier Quality team responsible for leading and executing the Simple Mills Supply Chain program and supporting the Quality department with the day-to-day requirements. This position will report to the Sr. Manager, Supplier Quality Assurance and responsibilities will include:
Support QA team in maintaining high Quality and Food Safety standards by supporting the supplier management initiatives
Ensure compliance of all suppliers to Simple Mills requirements regarding food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance; approving and disqualifying suppliers as required.
Approve or disqualify suppliers through document review, on-site inspections, and risk assessments; maintain the approved supplier list
Partner with Supplier QA Management to develop an annual target supplier list based upon supplier performance and ingredient risk factors; ensure audits are completed per agreed upon schedule
Create internal specifications for approved ingredients
Identify potential regulatory and/or food safety risks associated with ingredients/suppliers during product development; ensure all risks are communicated, properly assessed, controlled, and eliminated during the project.
Managing the Quality review, substantiation, and approval of finished product packaging claims
Managing the Corrective Action/Preventive action program for all supplier inputs and analyzing data to identify trends
Generate and present Supplier Quality KPI reports and supplier scorecards
Travel to suppliers to promote continuous improvement through CAPA verification, on-site inspections and partnering with suppliers on special projects
Managing our Trace Gains (Supplier Document Management System) system
Assuring that all suppliers meet Simple Mills Supplier Documentation requirements
Reviewing supplier documentation and records to verify compliance
Support development of any new Trace Gains initiatives and process improvements
Partner with 3rd party laboratories to set up testing requirements and manage results
Partner with the Simple Mills Supply Chain team to assure business needs are met
Lead cross functional meetings effectively by setting clear agendas, facilitating open discussion, ensuring all relevant stakeholders are engaged, and driving actionable outcomes
Execute additional QA tasks as assigned
Performs other duties as assigned
******* Please Note: While we are open to considering remote candidates, we will prioritize those located in the Midwest and East Coast areas near major airports.
Position Requirements:
Bachelor's degree required, with a strong preference for science degrees (Chemistry, Food Science, or related fields).
3+ years of comprehensive food safety and quality related experience
Must be proficient in Microsoft Office suite of software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and other applications as needed
The position requires on average 40% travel, with the potential to travel up to 60% for critical business needs
Candidates must possess a valid driver's license and be able to rent a car for work-related travel.
The ability to travel to remote areas and farms within the United States and Canada is essential for this role.
Candidates must reside in close proximity to a major airport to facilitate convenient travel when necessary
Auditing experience strongly preferred
Candidates must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and must also effectively manage and execute changes
Position requires ability to act as a member of a highly functioning team
Excellent communication, writing, analytical, and critical thinking skills
Strong organizational skills
Intermediate PowerPoint, and strong Excel skills (ability to structure and analyze data, manipulate pivot tables, create trackers, and utilize basic functions)
Proficiency in TraceGains is preferred but not required
A passion for natural food and healthy eating as well as a desire to change the way we think about ingredient labels
Working at Simple Mills
At Simple Mills, we’re not just building a brand—we’re leading a movement that’s transforming how food is made and enjoyed. If you’re passionate about purpose-driven work and crave a role where you can have a meaningful impact, this is your chance to be part of something bigger.
Why Join Us?
Be a Change-Maker
Play a key role in redefining the food industry, crafting products that nourish people and contribute to a healthier planet.
Thrive in a Mission-Driven Community
Work alongside a dynamic team of innovators and food lovers who are committed to positive change and bold ideas.
A Workplace Where You Belong
We foster an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Inclusion and belonging are at the heart of our culture, ensuring that everyone can thrive.
A Culture of Integrity and Impact
We don’t just talk about doing good—we live it. Our team is committed to ethical practices, responsible sourcing, and making decisions that drive real, positive change.
Grow with People-First Leadership
Our supportive leadership team is dedicated to mentorship, collaboration, and your long-term success.
Continuous Learning & Development
Whether through hands-on training, innovative learning platforms, or career growth opportunities, we invest in your professional development.
At Simple Mills, you’ll have the chance to make an impact while working in a collaborative and inspiring environment. If you’re ready to shape the future of food, let’s talk.
Benefits
We recognize that our people are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer a highly competitive total rewards package designed to support your financial well-being, health, and overall quality of life.
Competitive Compensation: This role offers a salary range of $90,000 to $105,000
Performance-Based Bonuses: Eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance, calculated at the end of the fiscal year.
Comprehensive Health & Financial Benefits: Robust medical, dental, and vision plans, along with a 401(k) retirement plan to support your long-term financial security.
Work-Life Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to thrive both professionally and personally with unlimited PTO, Live Full Fridays (where afternoons are yours to recharge), and a three-week sabbatical after five years of service—because we believe your best work happens when you have the time to rest and refocus.
Health & Wellness Perks: Lifestyle stipends and exclusive product perks to enhance your well-being—because your health and happiness matter.
We’re committed to taking care of our people—so you can focus on making an impact.
Work Model at Simple Mills
Our work model is role-dependent and team focused. With remote, hybrid, or in-office positions, each role is classified by what best supports the needs of the team.
This position will be hybrid: a balance of in-person and virtual work. Hybrid employees will work from our Chicago, IL office at least once per week. When working remotely, employees must work from a designated location in the United States (the new hire’s permanent residence, as documented in our HR System, Rippling) with sufficient internet access to support video conferencing. Safety protocols in accordance with CDC recommendations are followed.
